he ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to commence on February 19, marking the tournament’s return after an eight-year hiatus. Hosted by Pakistan, with India’s matches taking place in Dubai due to political considerations, the event will feature eight top ODI teams competing for the prestigious title.
Tournament Structure:
- Dates: February 19 to March 9, 2025
- Groups:
- Group A: Pakistan, India, New Zealand, Bangladesh
- Group B: Australia, England, South Africa, Afghanistan
- Format: Round-robin within groups, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the semi-finals.
Key Fixtures:
- Opening Match: Pakistan vs. New Zealand on February 19 in Karachi.
- High-Profile Clash: India vs. Pakistan on February 23 in Dubai.
- Semi-Finals: Scheduled for March 4 and 5.
- Final: March 9 in Lahore.
Squads Overview:
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Group A:
- India: Led by Rohit Sharma, featuring stalwarts like Virat Kohli and emerging talents such as Shubman Gill.
- Pakistan: Captained by Babar Azam, with a blend of experienced players and young prospects.
- New Zealand: Mitchell Santner takes the helm, leading a squad combining seasoned campaigners and fresh faces.
- Bangladesh: Najmul Hossain Shanto leads a team aiming to make a significant impact.
Group B:
- Australia: Steve Smith returns as captain, bringing leadership to a team rich in talent.
- England: Jos Buttler leads the defending ODI World Cup champions, looking to add the Champions Trophy to their accolades.
- South Africa: Temba Bavuma captains a side eager to shed the ‘chokers’ tag in ICC events.
- Afghanistan: Rashid Khan leads a team known for its spin prowess and seeking to upset higher-ranked opponents.
Broadcast Details:
- India: Live streaming on Jio Hotstar; television coverage on Star and Network 18 channels.
- Pakistan: Matches broadcast on PTV and Ten Sports; live streaming via Myco and Tamasha apps.
- United Kingdom: BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra will provide audio coverage for all 15 matches.
- Bangladesh: Linear broadcast on Nagorik TV and T Sports; digital streaming on the Toffee app.
- Australia: Coverage available on Prime Video, including Hindi commentary options.
- New Zealand: Matches broadcast on Sky Sport NZ; digital coverage via Now and SkyGo apps.
- South Africa and Sub-Saharan Territories: SuperSport and the SuperSport App will provide comprehensive coverage.
- Afghanistan: Matches available on ATN.
- Sri Lanka: Linear broadcast on Maharaja TV (TV1); digital streaming via Sirasa.
For fans worldwide, the ICC’s official website and app will offer live scores, highlights, and exclusive content throughout the tournament.
As the cricketing world gears up for this highly anticipated event, the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 promises thrilling matches and showcases the pinnacle of ODI cricket talent.
